Meet Your NYC Ad Agency Veteran and Mentorship Instructor.

John Calvaruso

Advertising Copy Writer & Creative Director

NYC agency trained
Studio owner
Real-world execution

After studying advertising at the HS of Art & Design in NYC, I began working in a very busy studio at 16 before moving to Lintas, a major ad agency. I mastered perfectionism in that fast-paced environment on accounts like IBM and Diet Coke. 20 years later, I founded Graphic Headquarters, expanding from print to websites and vehicle wraps to help businesses get noticed. For years, I’ve used screen-shares to educate clients on what works and why. After working from home for over 20 years, I’m ready to share my writing, design, and production skills so others can work for themselves while helping business owners grow their brands and client lists.

Are you still working in the advertising business?
Yes, I'm still writing and designing SEO, AEO, GEO websites, vehicle graphics and more.

Joe Lombardo

Print & Packaging

Design Studio Owner

Frank DeVito

Creative Director

Lintas

Gene Federico

Ad Agency Owner

LGFE

Tony DeGregorio

Creative Director

Lintas

Kevin O'Neill

Chief Copy Writer

Ad Agency Owner WBO

Donny Deutsch

Agency Owner

Deutsch Inc.

What if a client doesn't like my ideas or design?
After this mentorship, you will know how to explain why you are presenting a certain layout or design by backing it up with valid explanations.

20 years in NYC Ad Agencies plus 20 years of working for myself.

With four decades of experience—split evenly between elite NYC agencies and independent practice—I bring a seasoned perspective to every project. I’ve serviced hundreds of clients across diverse industries, mastering the art of navigating complex personalities while making the most demanding work look effortless. These are some of the advertising pioneers that worked with and learned from. Look them up.

Serviced 100s of clients
Dealt with all personalities
Worked in all industries
Make hard work look easy

From NYC Ad Agency Studio Manager/Art Director to Writing & Design Studio Owner.

Business ownership
Production expertise
Client management
Real consequences

Running a studio taught me realities agencies don’t always show — production errors, client expectations, deadlines, and responsibility. Students benefit from both perspectives.

Teaching What's Good, What's Not & Why in all Aspects of Print and Internet Advertising?

Failure analysis
Honest critique
Practical learning
Faster growth

Most programs only show success stories. I teach failures — and why they happen. Understanding what doesn’t work is how professionals grow faster.

Why Was This Advertising Apprenticeship Created?

Time compression
Real mentorship
No shortcuts
Professional clarity

After 40 years in this great business, I decided to share my expertise with those who really needed it. This program will save serious creatives years of trial and error. It is built on experience, not theory. Learn everything that schools and add agencies don't teach.

A Commitment to Serious Pros & Students is Promised.

SEO, AEO, GEO
Keyword research
AI-friendly content
Online performance

I work with professionals and students who respect the craft, the work, and the responsibility that comes with advertising. We'll take uour passion and turn it into a rewarding career.

Is this advertising mentorship prerecorded?
No, these sessions are always live so aspects can be discussed on the fly.

FAQs about this advertising apprentice/mentorship:

How long is each module?
Modules are covered weekly over 10–12 weeks.

Are assignments graded?
Students receive direct critique and feedback, not traditional grades.

Can I join remotely from anywhere?
Yes, the entire curriculum is fully remote.

How many students per session?
8–10 students per cohort for personalized mentorship.

Meet Your NYC Ad Agency Veteran and Mentorship Instructor. About the Instructor – NYC-Trained Advertising Mentor